In a decision that is sure to excite Buckeye Nation, Ohio State’s standout cornerback Davison Igbinosun has announced he will be returning to Columbus for the 2025 season. The two-time All-Big Ten honorable mention told ESPN that his goal is to elevate his game and solidify himself as a first-round NFL draft pick.
Igbinosun, who transferred from Ole Miss two years ago, has been a stalwart in the Ohio State secondary. In 2024, he recorded 9 passes defended, 2 interceptions, and a fumble recovery while helping lead the Buckeyes to a national championship. His return is a major boost for an OSU defense that could see as many as eight players selected in the upcoming NFL draft.
A Leader On and Off the Field
Beyond his on-field contributions, Igbinosun cited the opportunity to be a senior leader as a key factor in his decision to return. After consulting with head coach Ryan Day, cornerbacks coach Tim Walton, and his mother, he realized the impact he could have in 2025.
“I get the opportunity to lead and do it all over again, and have a bigger role as a leader, as more is going to be expected of me as a senior.”
– Davison Igbinosun
At 6-foot-2 and 192 pounds, Igbinosun possesses the prototypical size and athleticism that NFL teams covet in a modern cornerback. He has flashed elite speed and instincts in coverage, consistently matching up with the opponent’s top receivers.
Room for Improvement
Despite his impressive physical tools, Igbinosun acknowledges there are areas of his game that need refinement. Specifically, he must cut down on penalties, as he was flagged 16 times in coverage last season, the most of any cornerback in the nation.
“I want to improve on the penalties. I had too many, I want to clean that up.”
– Davison Igbinosun
By returning to school, Igbinosun gives himself the opportunity to work on his technique and eliminate the mental mistakes that have held him back at times. If he can do that while continuing to showcase his elite physical skills, he has the potential to be one of the first defensive backs off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft.
High Expectations for the Buckeyes
With Igbinosun back in the fold, expectations will be sky-high for the defending national champions. Ohio State is projected to return just three full-time defensive starters, meaning the senior corner will be counted on to provide stability and leadership for a unit in transition.
If Igbinosun can take the next step in his development and the young talent around him lives up to its potential, the Buckeyes have the pieces to field another championship-caliber defense in 2025. And for the star cornerback, a season of individual and team success could be the perfect springboard to achieving his NFL dreams.
